RE: [Paddlewise] VHF bags

John Kirk-Anderson <jka_at_netaccess.co.nz> wrote:

> I'm after some advice, and you folk seem the logical people to ask. I use an
> Apelco VHF 520 which I have been using in a waterproof bag, despite the
> claims that it is submersible. The only bags available here in NZ are the
> Aquapac bags, but after having two leak, I feel it is time to change.

Up until a year ago I would have said "bosh!" to John's bad experience with
Aquapac VHF bags -- "must have been a couple of rare defectives."  I have used
them since 1996 on two non-submersible radios.

But, I have now had two different bags show __slight__ leakage, at the clip
closure, one relatively new, and one a 1996 purchase.  Neither has leaked from
a seam or puncture.  In both cases, it was very difficult to reproduce the
leakage in the warmth of my household.

I think the leaks come from two sources:

1. a weld failure near the clip -- fixable with some vinyl cement.  Demands a
very careflul inspection of the bag end.

2. poor sealing at the end of the clip -- more of a problem when the bags are
cold.

In any case, I use the bags nonetheless, 'cause I can't locate anything
better.  In the case of a submersible radio, I think the bags are plenty good
protection.

When the bags are stored at home, leave the clips off, so there is no
pre-established groove in the vinyl.

I looked at the Boundary Bay site, but could not tell much about their bags
from the pictures.  I could not tell what style of closure they use, either.  I
nice aspect is that the bags have D-rings for anchoring on deck.

-- 
Dave Kruger
Astoria, OR
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